• decrease the maximum permitted height of tall grass from 30 centimetres to 20 centimetres;
• reduce the time required to resolve tall grass and nuisance weed complaints from 10 to seven days; and
• update the list of 12 noxious weeds to 25.

“The recommended changes to the by-law will strengthen our control over grass height and nuisance weeds,” said Sam Rogers, Director of Enforcement, Transportation and Works. “The amendments will also ensure the City’s regulatory standards are consistent with other municipalities and help contribute to a safe and healthy environment.”

Council directed staff on June 28, 2017 to review the maximum grass height of 30 centimetres and the time required to resolve nuisance weed and tall grass complaints. Staff reviewed the nuisance weed and tall grass standards for Brampton, Caledon, Oakville and Toronto.

The proposed amendments will ensure Mississauga remains consistent with other municipalities. According to the staff report, nuisance weeds and long grass may contribute to allergic reactions or health problems, disrupt ecological systems and pose a risk to fire and community safety by impairing visual sightlines.